Program and Year: 2021 Master’s Studentship Award
Project Title: Role of Microglial NMDA Receptors in Synaptic Plasticity
Department: Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Faculty: Graduate Studies, University of Manitoba (Supervisors: Dr. Tina M Kauppinen and Dr. Michael F Jackson
Synopsis:
My research is focused on studying whether disrupting the function of a specific receptor (called NMDA receptor) expressed in microglia, the brain immune cells, can reduce neuroinflammation and thus prevent impaired neuronal function and memory loss. The number of Manitobans (65+) with dementia is rising, in fact, in 2045 it’s predicted to reach almost 50,000 cases. Therefore, it is important for Manitobans to be aware of the current progress in dementia research as it can provide them with knowledge and understanding of the potential causes and hopefully with some means of preventing of Alzheimer’s disease.
What will the impacts/benefits of this research be to Manitoba/Canada?
My research project will bring more knowledge about the role that microglia triggered neuroinflammation plays in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. In the long run, my findings could help identify treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, for which prevalence is rising worldwide, including Manitoba.
What do you hope to achieve at the end of your Research Manitoba funded project?
I hope that by establishing the role of NMDA receptors in driving microglia inflammatory responses, my research project will provide insight about what drives the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. This would help establish the feasibility of targeting specific microglial receptors to prevent microglial responses that can jeopardize neuronal functions.
How did the funds you received from Research Manitoba advance this research and/or your career?
The financial help from Research Manitoba allows me to fully dedicate my time and focus for the research (project), and getting this scholarship was an achievement that serves as a step to advance my future career. Providing available funding in the field of dementia creates more opportunity and promotes training in research, which is beneficial for the lives of Manitobans.